While sunsets, beaches, and mountain tops are usually regarded as providing the best views, there are many city skylines whose beauty and awe rivals nature herself. Here 10 of the best:

1. Hong Kong, China

With 1,223 skyscrapers, Hong Kong has more high-rises than any other place and has truly earned the title of a “vertical” city. The modern buildings such as the International Commerce Center and HSBC Headquarters glow day and night, and the whole scene looks especially spectacular set to the backdrop of surrounding mountains and Victoria Harbour.

2. New York City, New York

Nearly everyone can recognize the iconic New York City skyline set along the Hudson River. From nearly any angle, it’s easily identified by the towering Chrysler, Empire State, and MetLife buildings. In the city that never sleeps, the buildings seem to stay permanently aglow and beckon for new arrivals.

3. Sydney, Australia

Thanks to the unique architecture of its Opera House and its position on a gorgeous harbor, Sydney is home to another instantly recognizable and beautiful skyline. Behind the Opera House are other buildings representing the latest in modern architecture, including, 1 Bligh Street, Sydney Tower, and MLC Centre.

4. Rio de Janiero, Brazil

For a mix of the perfect blending of natural and manmade wonders, you need look no further that Rio. Nestled along the Atlantic Coast is a bustling city with a mixture of modern and old buildings (some dating back to the 1500s). Rising above it all is the Christ the Redeemer statue, which sits above Corcovado Mountain.

5. Paris, France

What Paris lacks in skyscrapers, it makes up for in old world charm. The best views, of course, are seen from atop the Eiffel tower, where centuries old street layouts and buildings still remain. Still, the city has modernized over the years and the lights of buildings and cars illuminate the city by night.

6. Dubai, United Arab Emirates

Dubai is a burgeoning city that has witnessed skyscraper after skyscraper pop up in recent years. Currently, it is home to the world’s tallest building, the Burj Khalifa. The modern architecture combined with inspiration from Islam give this skyline a distinctive look.

7. Chicago, Illinois

The Willis Tower, Hancock Building, and Navy Pier sitting along Lake Michigan are the highlights of this busy city. Catch a boat tour to see the best views and to learn more about the area’s rich history.

8. Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia

With colonial, Asian, Islamic, and post-modern influences, Kuala Lumpur is a melting pot of architectural design. Although still a young city, the impressive Petronas Twin Towers give a clear message of Kuala Lumpur’s future.

9. Shanghai, China

Like Hong Kong, Shanghai sits along the water and boasts some impressively tall buildings. For instance, The World Financial Center, Jin Mao Tower, and Oriental Pearl & Radio Tower are all over 1,300 feet tall. Making the area even more unique is its eclectic architecture which ranges from Art Deco, to Soviet neoclassical, to traditional Chinese.

10. Moscow, Russia

Just looking at the Moscow skyline has a way of taking you back in history. The onion domes of the world-renowned St Basil’s Cathedral, the Seven Sisters, and Kremlin all hearken back to the city’s architectural glory days.